Support Your Sex Drive: Tips for Women on the Birth Control Pill

Birth control can be a game-changer for many of us. No more stressing about unintended pregnancies - we can finally just enjoy the pleasure that comes with intimacy without any anxiety. But what happens when the spark just isn't there anymore? Suddenly, we might find ourselves feeling less than frisky, and we can't seem to figure out why. Well, the culprit may just be the very thing that brought us this newfound freedom: birth control. 

If you're struggling with a low sex drive, don't worry - you're not alone. In this article, we'll show you how to support your sex drive while on birth control and get back to enjoying the passion with your partner.

What Fuels Your Sex Drive?

It’s not just hormones that dictate whether we're in the mood or not. Did you know that a whole host of factors can affect our libido? It's true! Let's break it down a little further.

• First and foremost, our relationship with our partner can play a big role in how often we want to get intimate.
• Social factors like work, school, or other stresses can also put a damper on our sex drive.
• Personality traits like shyness or introversion can also play a part.
• High levels of stress, anxiety or depression can make it harder to get in the mood.
• Certain medications can decrease libido as a side effect.
• Our lifestyle choices, such as poor sleep habits, unhealthy eating habits, or excessive alcohol consumption, can also have an impact.
• And let's not forget about puberty, breastfeeding and menopause - both can have a huge impact on our sex drive.

As you can see, there are many different factors that contribute to our sex drive, and researchers are still learning more about how it all works. So don't be too hard on yourself if you're not feeling as frisky as you used to - there could be a lot more going on under the surface than you think.

How Does The Pill Affect Sex Drive?

So, let's answer the question on everyone's mind: does birth control affect sex drive? The short answer is yes, it can. Hormonal contraceptives release hormones into your body that prevent pregnancy. However, for some women, these hormones can cause physical and sexual side effects. Most birth control pills contain both estrogen and progesterone, which work together to prevent ovulation. But here's the catch - when your ovaries are being suppressed, your body produces fewer androgens, which are the hormones responsible for driving your libido. Without these crucial hormones, it can be a lot harder to get in the mood. Some experts also believe that hormonal birth control reduces testosterone levels in the body, further impacting sex drive. While researchers haven't found conclusive evidence to support this theory, it's clear that many women experience changes in their sex drive while on the pill.

What Can You Do To Rev Up Your Sex Drive?

Many women experience changes in their libido while taking hormonal contraceptives. The Guud news is that there are plenty of things you can do to rev up your sex drive and get back in the mood. In this section, we'll explore some strategies for boosting libido and enhancing your overall sexual experience. Let's dive in.

Communicate

It’s time to get talking... about sex, that is! If you've noticed a change in your libido since starting birth control, it's important to communicate with your partner. Not only does talking about your desires and preferences lead to better sex, but it can also help you discover new turn-ons and get your mojo back. From sharing your wildest fantasies to spicing things up with some dirty talk, opening up about your sexual desires can lead to some seriously hot and intimate exploration. So don't be shy - get talking and let the good times roll.

Reduce Your Stress Levels

When you're feeling overwhelmed, your body releases cortisol - the hormone that can throw your sex hormones out of whack. In fact, high stress can directly cause a low libido. Plus, stress can reduce blood flow to the genitals, making it tough to get aroused and dampening your desire for sex. But don't worry, we've got your back. Whether you prefer to sweat it out with a killer workout, zen out with a little meditation, or just cuddle up with your furry best friend, finding a way to bust stress is key to getting back in the mood. So take some time for yourself and let the good vibes flow. 

Want to know more about stress and how it impacts your cycle? Read our post called How Stress Affects Your Period. 

Try Something New

If you’re feeling uninterested in sex, it might be time to mix things up. Trying something new in the bedroom, or even exploring fantasies outside the bedroom, might be just what you need to reignite that spark. Whether you're into role-playing, reading or watching erotica, or adding a new sex toy to the mix, there are plenty of options to explore. You might just discover a new kind of excitement that fuels your sex drive. So, don't be afraid to get creative!

Self Care

Taking care of yourself is a key component of boosting your sex drive. This can include anything from getting enough sleep to eating a balanced diet to treating yourself to a spa day. But one often overlooked aspect of self-care when it comes to sex is making sure you're getting what you need in the bedroom. As we mentioned earlier, many women need clitoral stimulation to orgasm, and some require extra foreplay to feel aroused. Don't be afraid to communicate your needs to your partner and experiment with new techniques or positions to increase your pleasure. When you're enjoying yourself, you're more likely to want to do it again and again.

Speak With Your Doctor 

If you're experiencing a dip in your sex drive and suspect that your birth control might be the culprit, consider talking to your doctor or healthcare provider. It can be tough to bring up the subject, but remember: your healthcare professional is there to help you. They can talk with you about any physical or mental health symptoms you're experiencing that might be contributing to the issue, and help you explore other birth control options that could be more libido-friendly. Don't suffer in silence—take the first step and ask for help!

Not ready to talk to your doc? Talk to us instead. We’re experts in all things women’s health and our team is here to listen and offer advice and support. 

Balance Your Hormones

If you're on birth control and struggling with a low libido, there are ways to help balance your hormone levels. One easy option is to add a supplement to your routine to support your cycle and your sex drive. To learn more about what supplements are best and why you should take a supplement if you’re on the pill, check out our blog post here. 

In addition to supplements, there are lifestyle changes that can help balance hormones, such as getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress levels. By keeping your hormones in check, you may find that your sex drive returns to normal.

Know the Effect of the Pill on Your Body

It's important to remember that the effect of birth control on your body is unique to you. Don't be afraid to seek advice if you're experiencing low libido. (Remember: you can always talk to us or ask our amazing community on our Facebook page!) Understanding your birth control and its potential side effects can help you take the necessary steps to restore your sex drive. And remember, taking control of your reproductive health can be empowering, leading to a renewed desire for sex. So, don't hesitate to speak up and seek the help you need to enjoy a fulfilling sex life.

Thinking about quitting the pill and returning to a natural cycle? We can help. Check our guide here.